The Miami Marlins have made no secret of their plans this offseason. They had been looking to upgrade their lineup, particularly in the outfield, as much as possible. As it is, they have already made an addition in Avisail Garcia, signing him to a four year deal.
But the Marlins may not be done in adding to their outfield. Not only have they been connected to any center fielder that could be on the trade block, but they are also looking at other corner outfielders with the idea that Garcia could play center. Michael Conforto is one of those outfielders as the Marlins have reportedly had discussions with his representatives.
Miami Marlins showing interest in Michael Conforto
There was a time that Conforto would have seemed to be the piece that the Marlins needed. From 2017 through 2020, he posted a .265/.369/.495 batting line with 97 homers and 86 doubles in his 1959 plate appearances. That production would make him another middle of the order bat for a team that is desperately in need of help.
But Conforto struggled last season. Perhaps the pressure of his impending free agency was too much as he struggled to a .232/.344/.384 batting line in his 479 plate appearances, hitting 14 homers and 20 doubles. Those struggles have made Conforto one of the more difficult free agents to determine a value for.
However, there is reason to think that Conforto will get back to his previous form. He had a horrific start to the 2021 season, but produced a .252/.347/.445 batting line with 11 homers and 13 doubles in his 274 plate appearances after the All Star Break. While that is not quite what he had produced in the previous four years, it is not that far off from his previous production.
At this point, adding a center fielder would seem to be a far bigger need. The Marlins need someone who is capable defensively at the position, especially as Garcia has cost his teams ten runs in just 90 games at the position. However, improving the lineup, regardless of any possible defensive issues, may be considered more important.
The Miami Marlins are reportedly interested in Michael Conforto. He could be yet another upgrade in a lineup that needs plenty of help.